Uji City, Kyoto Ujigawa cormorants are said to have already been practiced in the Heian period, and have a long history Impression when I saw it for the first time, it was 😌 a mysterious sight with a female cormorant being active I didn't know if flash photography was good for animals, so I dared to shoot without flash

A townscape that makes you feel like you've traveled back in time to Edo Narai juku, Nagano There was also a large Kiso Bridge nearby, and it was a 😌 place where you could feel the history

Water wheel in Shinno, Kamikawa-cho, Hyogo Prefecture It is said that it has existed since before the 6th year of Genroku 1693, and 11 water wheels with a diameter of about 3 m are scattered in the waterway with abundant flow, and Ume Plum algae baikamo, which only lives in clear streams, can be seen nearby, and you can encounter a rural landscape rich in rich in nature and a beautiful original landscape that should be protected. There is 😌 a scene here that I want to visit many times in the past and connect from the history of the past to the future

Water wheel in Shinno, Kamikawa-cho, Hyogo Prefecture It is said that it has existed since before the 6th year of Genroku 1693, and 11 water wheels with a diameter of about 3 m are scattered in the waterway with abundant flow, and Ume Plum algae baikamo, which only lives in clear streams, can be seen nearby, and you can encounter a rural landscape rich in rich in nature and a beautiful original landscape that should be protected. There is 😌 a scene here that I want to visit many times in the past and connect from the history of the past to the future

Water turbine in Shinno, Kamikawa, Hyogo It is said to have existed since before the 6th year of Genroku 1693, and 11 water wheels with a diameter of about 3 m are scattered in the waterway with abundant flow, and Ume Plum flower algae baikamo, which only live in Clear streams, can be seen nearby, and you can encounter Rich in nature rural scenery and beautiful original scenery that should be protected. There is 😌 a scene here that I want to visit many times in the past and connect from the history of the past to the future

Katakura-kan, nationally designated Important Cultural Property This day-use bathing facility lies about a seven-minute walk from Kamisuwa Station. One of Suwa’s most famous baths, it served as a filming location for the movie Thermae Romae II. The deep 1.1 m bath called the “Sen-nin-buro” (Thousand-Person Bath) is meant for standing while you soak, which often surprises visitors. Smooth river pebbles cover the floor of the large bath, pleasantly stimulating the soles of your feet. It’s an ideal bath for tired bodies and is refreshing even in the height of summer—recommended for visitors to Kamisuwa Onsen♨ Day-use bathing is available here, so please enjoy the historic architecture along with the bath! Search keywords → Katakura-kan Sen-nin-buro

Imagine a time when samurai ruled the land and constructed magnificent forts. Himeji Castle, a UNESCO Cultural Heritage site, is a sight to behold. Its most striking feature is the daitenshu, the main donjon. This impressive structure stands at 31.5 meters tall with five stories on the outside and seven interior floors, reaching a total height of 46.3 meters. The castle is surrounded by three smaller keeps connected by roofed passages, adding to its grandeur. Designated as national treasures, the donjons and watariyagura are a testament to Japan's rich history and architectural ingenuity.

Doll Memorial Service Suwa, Nagano Prefecture Onsenji Temple, Rinzai Myoshinji School On March 17, 2014, I visited Onsenji Temple. It is about a ten-minute walk from Kamisuwa Station. This temple performs memorial services for dolls and stuffed animals. It felt much like a funeral for dolls and stuffed toys. Onsenji holds a doll memorial service every March. In Japan, Boys’ Day falls on May 5 and Girls’ Day on March 3. Most grandparents give dolls to their grandchildren to pray for the child’s healthy growth. These are traditional Japanese dolls unique to Japan. As a result, many Japanese households own Japanese dolls. I believe dolls also have a spirit, like animism suggests. When your child owns a doll, the child plays with it. As the child grows up, they tend to move away from the doll. Most Japanese people do not simply throw away the dolls that watched over their children’s growth. That is because the dolls spent time with the child. Most Japanese think dolls have a soul. That is why they hold memorial services for dolls. That day, over 1,000 dolls were gathered. The chief priest chanted sutras for the dolls and stuffed animals for about 30 minutes. The priest offered thanks to the dolls with purifying salt. We prayed with the same feeling. It was a very mysterious experience. It was my first time seeing so many dolls and stuffed animals. Still, it was a deeply heartfelt Buddhist memorial for the dolls. I felt I could sense a little of Buddhist sentiment. That is why I love Japan!! Also, Onsenji is famous as a spot for autumn leaves. If you want to see beautiful foliage, please come and see the autumn colors at Onsenji.

It is one of the three major fire festivals in Japan and is designated as an important Intangible folk cultural property of Japan. It is spectacular to see 12 large torches weighing about 50 kg each parading along the approach. This year's ceremony will be held on July 14.

【Ōgahas】 The Giant Lotus is an ancient lotus that was discovered and bred in 1951 by a group led by botanist Dr. Ichiro Ohga. As a result of dating, it is known that it is a lotus that is at least 2,000 years old, and it is known as the world's oldest lotus that was excavated from an old stratum and successfully germinated and grown. This precious giant hath is rooted in about 250 places in Japan and overseas, and you can see its beautiful appearance in each place. Chiba City will be the "birthplace" of such a giant hasu. The lotus pond in front of the Lotus Pavilion in Chiba Park in Chiba City welcomes Renge Best time to visit from mid-June to July every year, and when there are more than 700 flowers, more than 700 flowers bloom, and many tourists Visit to see the graceful appearance of the giant lotus. There are walking paths and benches in the surrounding area, so you can spend a relaxing time with cherry blossom viewing. In addition to the beauty of the flowers, the historical background and the achievements of Dr. Ohga will allow those who visit to enjoy even more Impression. In addition, the flowers usually open from early morning to mid-morning and close around noon, so it is recommended to watch the giant hath in the morning! [Chiba Park] ■ Access: About a 10-minute walk from JR Chiba Station Chiba Park Exit or North Exit Get off in front of Chiba Monorail Chiba Park Station ■Address: 3-1-1 Benten, Chuo-ku, Chiba City

The 34th Magatama Festival On Saturday and Sunday, May 25 and 26, a festival of culture and the arts took place at Sannomiya Hibita Shrine. On a special stage in the shrine grounds, events such as traditional Japanese dance, iai sword-drawing demonstrations, kendo demonstrations, and magatama (bead) making workshops drew lively crowds, alongside stalls selling local farm produce and food trucks. Kururin tried the raffle where Kururin goods could be won, and won a Kururin memo pad! At the first day's Evening of Wind and Gagaku, attendees were captivated by elegant dances accompanied by wind instruments. Be sure to join us next year!!

The sculptures at the Chichibu Treasure Climbing Shrine were gorgeous, and I couldn't help but take a picture. The fineness of the carvings and the vividness of the colors are all wonderful. It is a workmanship that makes you feel Cool Japan.

I started helping farmers this year! For the first time, I learned that most of the famous lily root takes a lot of traditional manual work, and it takes five years to eat. And the young Indonesians I work with. Although we don't speak the language, we are important friends ^^ who work together to cherish historic specialties

Creative Local cuisine "Chiba-san" What is Mr. Chiba...? This dish was devised based on the "sanga-yaki" in which fishermen in Samukawa, Chiba City, who supported Edo-mae, roasted fish caught on a boat with condiments and miso paste. Tataki, which is made by cutting ingredients such as fish and meat into small pieces, adding miso, green onions, large leaves, and ginger and pounding them with a knife, and "Namero," which is further finely pounded and eaten raw, is a creative local cuisine created by adding additional ingredients and cooking methods. When you come to Chiba City, please enjoy the "Chiba-san" created by famous restaurants in Chiba City with their unique personalities and ideas! < is a local fisherman who grills Tradition> At the end of the Edo period, fishermen's boats in Samukawa used to cook the fish they caught on board for a meal. Soy sauce spills out, so the seasoning was exclusively miso. It is said that the origin of "sangayaki" is a dish tataki made by pounding the caught fish with condiments and miso, dipping it in the back of the shamoji and roasting it over a fire. These dishes, which were invented by the fishermen of Samukawa who wanted to deliver the fish they caught to Edo while they were still fresh, out of the need for on-board cooking, are a valuable culture that tells us that Chiba supported "Edo-mae". Written by Samukawa Shrine Ujiko Youth Association

When I visited Takashima Castle around Golden Week, local junior high students were there sketching the castle. Approaching the wisteria, a wonderfully sweet scent filled the air. Before I knew it, honeybees and carpenter bees had come to gather nectar🐝—even I, as a person, was drawn in by that lovely fragrance!!! I don’t understand why the demons in Demon Slayer would be afraid of such beautiful flowers, haha. I think they’re gorgeous. I recommend taking shots from beneath the wisteria trellis!!! Surprisingly, I didn’t know—despite being a local—that wisteria blooms were even in the pond... Takashima Castle, I’m sorry... Looking at the whole display of wisteria that day, to my amateur eye it seemed about 70% in bloom. On the grounds stands a rare Gokoku Shrine⛩ whose architecture resembles that of Suwa Taisha. It seems to have some unusual carvings. I think Golden Week is generally the best time to visit every year, when you can see them at their most beautiful. The castle, the park, and the wisteria—please come and visit next year; we’ll be waiting for you!

Japanese Garden "Mihamaen" A Japanese Garden in Makuhari Seaside Park with an area of about 1.6 hectares. In the pond spring circulation Garden, mountains, rivers, seas, forests, etc. are expressed, and you can fully enjoy the natural beauty of the four seasons. It has a reputation for being able to easily experience Japanese culture. At the authentic tea house "Shoreitei", which is built in a number of strange houses, you can overlook the proud Garden and spend a relaxing time while enjoying seasonal Japanese sweets from Chiba long-established stores and matcha tea for a fee from long-established stores in Kyoto. You can also enjoy the experience of feeding beautiful carp that swim gracefully in the pond in the garden. Paid / Closed in winter In addition, there are plenty of events where you can easily experience Japanese culture. A variety of events are held, such as koto concerts and guided tours of gardens and tea rooms, so if you would like to participate, please check the official website. If you are staying near Kaihin Makuhari Station, it is within walking distance, so please extend your visit! ■ Business hours: 8:00-17:00 ■ Closed: Yes please check the website Fee: ・Admission fee: 100 yen for Adult, 50 yen for elementary, junior high and high school students * If you are 65 years old or older, admission is free upon presentation of your ID. * Matcha with Japanese sweets 700 yen for 1 cup sweets change depending on the season ■ Access: By < train> About a 10-minute walk from the south exit of Kaihin Makuhari Station on the JR Keiyo Line <By car> From Tokyo Approximately 7 minutes after exiting the Higashi-Kando "Wangan Narashino IC" 　　　　　　　 About 5 minutes after exiting the Higashikando "Wangan Chiba IC" from the Chiba direction ■Address: 2-116 Hibino, Mihama-ku, Chiba City

When I took a picture of Himeji Castle with the front shifted, the height of the castle walls and the presence of the castle tower stood out. It's a place you want to visit at least once.

It is a large drum at the Suwa Grand Shrine in Shinshu Suwa. In addition to the size, the gorgeous pattern on the body is worth seeing. This kind of attention to detail is Cool Japan. Why don't you visit once?

Chiba Shrine The main shrine of the North Star god "Myomi-sama". The star of man = Evil removal that controls fate, removes bad stars and leads to good stars, and eight directions that avoid disasters related to the azimuth. Prayer is a lot of worship in search of two powers. Although it is located in the city, it is also famous as a Power Spot where you can feel a mysterious atmosphere when you step inside. According to the legend of Chiba Shrine, when Chiba Tsuneshige moved his residence from Oshii Castle to Inohana Castle, he brought the Myomi-son, which had been handed down from his ancestors, to this place and built the Myomi-sha. After that, it was revered as the guardian deity of the Chiba clan until Chiba Shigetsu was destroyed by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the 18th year of Tensho 1590, and the temple was abolished by the Meiji era separation decree and became the Chiba Shrine to enshrine the main life of Tengochu. The annual summer festival "Myōken Taisai" has been held without interruption since the first festival began in the second year of Taiji 1127 and has become a tradition in Chiba. ■ Access: ・ 10 minutes walk from JR Chiba Station Central Ticket Gate East Exit ・10 minutes by car from Anagawa IC in Keiyo Province ■Address: 1-16-1 Hospital, Chuo-ku, Chiba City

A little Spot on the supporting role

The 34th Magatama Festival (Held in rain; program subject to change) Saturday, May 25, 1:00 PM–6:30 PM Sunday, May 26, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM Sannomiya Hibita Shrine (1472 Sannomiya, Isehara) By train: Odakyu Odawara Line, Isehara Station From Isehara Station by bus Board at North Exit, Platform 1 (bound for Kurihara via Sekidai) → Get off at "Hibita Shrine" (about 15 minutes) → short walk Board at North Exit, Platform 4 (bound for Isehara Depot via Tonomura and Ishikurabashi) → Get off at "Sannomiya" (about 12 minutes) → about 5 minutes on foot Board at North Exit, Platform 1 (bound for Tsurumaki Onsen via Ozumidai) → Get off at "Gobe" (about 12 minutes) → about 12 minutes on foot By car About 5 minutes from the Shin-Tomei Expressway Isehara-Ooyama Interchange Organizer: Magatama Festival Executive Committee (0463-95-3237) A festival of culture and the arts held in Hibita no Mori, the birthplace of ancient culture A special stage will present a wide variety of performances and events. * Simultaneous special exhibition of archaeological materials (including Important Cultural Properties) (free) Featuring city-designated cultural properties such as items excavated from the Noborioyama Kofun Items excavated from Rachimen Kofun and Oneyama Kofun Bronze swords and horse fittings with gold plating over bronze, such as the kondo tandoryu-kan-ha (a single-dragon ring-hilt in gilt bronze) Numerous cultural properties excavated from surrounding ruins are preserved here Open 10:00 AM–4:00 PM At the Sannomiya Local History Museum (inside Hibita Shrine) * Magatama-making experience (materials fee required) At the parking area in front of Sanshuden (Fun Square) Enjoy local agricultural product sales, food trucks, and other stalls. "An Evening of Kangen and Bugaku" (first day, 25th, 5:10 PM–6:30 PM) The graceful dances performed to wind instrument music are well worth seeing! Kururin will also be there!!

TV Asahi 'Jun Sanpo' Junji Takada strolls through Isehara's MtOoyama ◇Program content "Take a step and you may meet someone…" Junji Takada explores the town at his own pace with the theme "one step, one encounter (ippo ichi e)" Walking freely and whimsically through the streets! ◇Cast 【Cast】Junji Takada Air date and time: Monday, May 20, 2024 9:55–10:25 Program highlights: ▽A Japan Heritage site! The spectacular "Divine Mountain" admired by Edo commoners ▽A mysterious word at the rest stop: "RUMESON" ▽Showcasing seasonal charms: "Drone Gonnegi" Air date and time: Tuesday, May 21, 2024 9:55–10:25 Program highlights: ▽The pleasures of shrine visits—souvenirs and gourmet treats line the Koma approach ▽Edo-period culture—lodging temples that house shrine buildings▽300 years of history! Take on a challenge with the regional specialty, Ōyama Koma! ※Photo: Traditional craft Ōyama Koma (not from program footage) Don't miss it! And be sure to see MtOoyama with your own eyes, hear it with your own ears, touch it with your own skin, and enjoy touring the filming locations!!

Inohana Park / Chiba Castle Chiba City Local Museums / Inohanatei It is a historical park located in the birthplace of Chiba, where Tsuneshige, the father of Chiba Tsuneshige, set up a residence in this area in 1126 Daijigen. Although it is located in the center of Chiba City, it has a quiet and calm environment and is a place of relaxation for citizens and tourists. In Inohana Park, there is "Chiba Castle Chiba City Local Museum / Free Admission", which exhibits Documents on the history of the local area, including Mr. Chiba, who laid the foundation of the town of Chiba, as well as various special exhibitions related to Chiba. The view from the observation deck on the 5th floor is wonderful, overlooking the city and Chiba Port, and sometimes you can see Mt. Fuji. In the calm Japanese space "Inohanatei" where you can see Chiba Castle, there is a green Garden and serves the Specialties Inohana Dango and sweets. There is also a tea room with a view of the garden, and it is a nostalgic tea shop that conveys traditional Japanese tea culture. You can enjoy the nature of the four seasons in Inohana Park, and especially in Spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, making it a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. At the Chiba Castle Sakura Festival, food stalls and Kitchen Car using local ingredients are lined up, and local cultural and performing arts live performances Gari live. The Limited Time festival of Chiba Castle illumination and the competition of cherry blossoms at night are reputed to Fascination people. ■ Access: ・From JR Chiba Station, take the Keisei Bus to "University Hospital" and get off at "Local Museums" ・10 minutes walk from Chiba Monorail Prefectural Office Station ・ 15 minutes walk from JR Honchiba Station ■Address: 1-6 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba City

Nice to meet you! This is the Iijima Town Tourism Association. Iijimamachi, Kamiina County, Nagano Prefecture is a town of about 8,900 people located in the center of the Inadani Valley in southern Nagano Prefecture. To the west lies the Central Alps and to the east the Southern Alps, making it a town where you can see two mountain ranges. On the Cool Japan video channel, we will share recommended and up-to-date information about Iijima Town in Nagano Prefecture, so please stay tuned! ◇◇What is Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture? Iijima Town is home to two nationally famous fireworks makers. In spring there is the Senninzuka Water Fireworks Festival, summer brings event fireworks, in September–October there are weekly votive fireworks, and on New Year’s Day there is the New Year's Eve Fireworks Festival. Fireworks are a familiar presence in the lives of Iijima residents throughout the year. Also, straw work (wara-zaiku) has been passed down through generations as a traditional craft. Straw work made in Iijima Town is famous nationwide and contributes to making sumo wrestling ring straw bales and ceremonial shimenawa ropes for well-known shrines. In recent years Iijima Town has attracted attention as a comfortable place to live, and the number of people moving here has increased. ◇◇Tourist attractions in Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture [Mt. Karakasa] This 1,542-meter mountain had two trails developed in 2013. From the lookout and the summit you can enjoy spectacular views of the Southern Alps. [Campsites in Iijima Town] Iijima Town has three campsites, so choose the one that fits your plans and enjoy. ・Senninzuka Park Campsite Located in the Shichikubo district, this nature park offers camping, SUP, fishing, trekking, and many activities to enjoy the rich outdoors. ・Inaka no Kaze Campsite Experience farm activities and beetle hunting to fully feel the great outdoors. ・Yodagiri Park Campsite This site also has sports facilities such as tennis courts and a pool. The natural spring in the park, Kosumo no Mizu, was selected as one of Shinshu’s 15 notable and secret waters. [Roadside Station Hana-no-Sato Iijima] Fresh local vegetables line the stalls, and you can also enjoy meals. You can take in sweeping views of the Central Alps and the Southern Alps. [Roadside Station Tagirino Sato] This roadside station offers many products showcasing Iijima Town’s natural bounty, letting you feel the charm of Minami Shinshu Iijima Town. The takeout soft serve ice cream is very popular. ◇◇Local specialties of Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture Alps Salmon, large rainbow trout raised in alpine spring water, is richly flavored and superbly fatty. The town also has many soba restaurants where you can enjoy authentic hand-made soba. ◇◇Festivals and events in Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture [Shinshu Ijima Wind Road Wind Chime Festival] In 2023 this event set a Guinness World Record for the largest number of displayed wind chimes. Ten thousand wind chimes created a cool, ringing sound across the venue. Many food stalls line the site, and a special stage features guests selected each year to match the festival’s concept. [Iijima Town Rice Bale Marathon] In this rice-producing town, a marathon carrying rice bales is held. The 2023 event marked the 11th running and, as usual, registration fills up immediately when applications open, making it a very popular event. ◇◇Recommended information about Iijima Town, Nagano Prefecture Iijima Town offers stunning natural beauty, a rich history, and warm local events that make it an appealing destination. Please come and enjoy a relaxing time in Iijima Town. We will continue to share tourism information about Iijima Town on this account, so please follow us.

In 2024, the events of the 1300th anniversary of the founding of the Chiba Prefecture Kamogawa City Mt. Takasu Oyama Temple and Takasu Shrine will be held

【Nagiso Town】May dolls on display At the free rest area "Fureaikan" in Tsumago juku, May dolls are on display. Visiting the site is free and will last until Wednesday, June 5. Please come and visit us! For details, please visit the official website of Tsumago juku. Inquiries: Tsumagoro Tourist Information Center TEL: 0264-57-3123

Photographed 5/3/24. This is a demonstration of the Enokikai Shrine in Koedo Kurato. Adult Hyotoko.

Photographed 5/3/24. This is a demonstration of the Enoki-kai Shrine in Koedo Kurato. The lion's head is dancing.

Funaya in Ine, Kyoto Whenever I look at it, I feel that it is amazing to be able to maintain this scenery even though it is close to the sea, and it seems that the reason why Ine Bay is less affected by disasters is because Qingdao, which becomes a bay, protects it.

Photographed 5/3/24. This is a demonstration of Koedo Kurasato's performance of the Shintomi Town 1-chome Enoki Yakushiren. It seems that your friends also came to see it. 👋